Day trippin': Visiting winery paradise – St. James

Not far from the Fort Leonard Wood Area, the small community of St. James offers everything from wineries to outdoor activities. Located off Interstate 44 at the 195 exit, St. James is the perfect adventure for a laid back and relaxed getaway.

Not far from the Fort Leonard Wood Area, the small community of St. James offers everything from wineries to outdoor activities. Located off Interstate 44 at the 195 exit, St. James is the perfect adventure for a laid back and relaxed getaway.

The small community will come to life this week as the region celebrates the harvest.

As the final details are lined out, the excitement and anticipation are beginning to grow as organizers prepare for the opening events of the annual Grape and Fall Festival.

With a long and rich history celebrating the grape harvest and the fall season, the 79th annual festival offers something for every member of the family. Young and old alike will find entertainment and activities to wile away an evening or to take in a full day of events on Friday and Saturday.

The fun continues throughout the week with 4-H exhibits, entertainment and the carnival at the fairgrounds. The grand finale is on Saturday when the community will step out to celebrate the theme of this year's festival, "How Sweet It Is" beginning with a street market in downtown St. James while the parade gets underway at 11: 00 a.m..

While the extended forecast calls for some rain throughout the weekend, it looks like even the weather will cooperate with pleasant temperatures and partly sunny skies on tap for the weekend.

The St. James Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Center, located at Exit 195 on I-44, gladly welcomes thousands of visitors each year. The Tourism staff make it a priority to ensure that visitors will have an enjoyable experience. Staff will send visitor packets upon request, as well as provide assistance in scheduling agendas for individuals or tour groups. Visit www.stjameschamber.net or call 573-265-6649 for more information on area establishments and activities.

Four Wineries & A Museum

St. James has been making history for over 80 years with award-winning wines and hundreds of acres of vineyards sprawling through the Ozarks Highland Viticulture area. An ideal climate and terrain make for an excellent harvest.

Heinrichshaus Vineyard & Winery (est. 1979)

Nestled in its natural environment, this rustic winery produces six delicious wine varieties by Heinrich Grohe. Pack a picnic lunch, and spend time eating at the terrace.

Page 2 of 2 - Meramec Vineyards (est. 2000)

Taste and savor their wines ranging from the dry Euro to semi-sweet and sweet American Tradition. Enjoy a tasty lunch at the Bistro d'Vine; view the work of local artists; and play Bocce in the garden.

Rosati Winery Museum (est. 2011)

Built in 1934, the Rosati Winery stands alongside the famous Route 66, offering decades of history to its visitors. Purchased in 2009 by Andrew Mendez, the museum was renovated and reopened for business in May of 2011. Rosati Winery Museum offers wine tasting from various regions of Missouri, as well as historical information, including interesting facts from the World War II era.

St. James Winery (est. 1970)

The largest winery in Missouri, with over 120 acres of vineyards, produces 23 award-winning wines by the Hofherr family. Be sure to take part in touring the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, and browsing the beautiful gift shop.

Three Squirrels Winery (formerly Ferrigno Winery, est. 1982)

Formerly known as Ferrigno Winery, this one-of-a-kind establishment was reopened for business in 2010 as Three Squirrels Winery. Featuring seven wines and an art gallery, Three Squirrels Winery is uniquely housed in a historic dairy barn. While visiting, spend time enjoying the large shaded courtyard that overlooks the vineyards & the winery's 34 beautiful acres.

Shops and Eateries

St. James provides an exclusive shopping and dining experience with local hospitality and friendliness. Wineries, antique stores, flag professionals, specialty and apparel shops, and gift stores offer unique and unusual merchandise. A variety of eateries are also available to satisfy your appetite: home-style cooking, Mexican grill, fine dining, steakhouse, and hometown café. Tasty sweets can be savored at the frozen yogurt bar or the hand-dipped ice cream shop.

Lodging

The St. James area provides both indoor and outdoor accommodations for overnight visitors. Those looking for outdoor enjoyment have five campground choices, offering tent sites, RV parking, cabins, and a swimming pool. Indoor lodging options are available at three motels, one of which offers an indoor pool and hot tub. A Victorian-style bed and breakfast is also offered for those who enjoy a more personal environment. Whatever your preference, comfort is sure to be found in one of the many friendly and hospitable establishments.